IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND MANAGEMENT RESEARCH (IJSSMR )

E-ISSN 2545-5303
P-ISSN 2695-2203
VOL. 11 NO. 1 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijssmr.vol.11no1.2025.pg.305.318

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Unveiling Gender Bias in Budgeting: A Qualitative Inquiry into Policy and Practice

Prof. Aliyu IDRIS

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Abstract

Gender budgeting is a crucial mechanism for promoting financial equity and ensuring that resource allocation addresses the diverse socio-economic needs of men and women. However, despite the increasing recognition of gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) as a policy tool, implicit budget formulation and implementation biases persist across both public and private sectors. This study employs a qualitative research approach to explore gender bias in budgeting, focusing on policy frameworks, institutional structures, and the lived experiences of financial decision-makers. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the study uncovers systemic barriers such as deeply ingrained institutional biases, limited political commitment, inadequate gender-disaggregated data, and weak enforcement mechanisms. Findings indicate that while some governments and organisations have adopted GRB policies, their effectiveness is often undermined by structural inefficiencies and resistance to gender mainstreaming. The study concludes by offering practical recommendations to strengthen gender-sensitive financial planning, including policy reforms, improved data collection, and capacity-building initiatives to foster inclusive budgetary processes. This research contributes to the growing discourse on gender equity in financial governance, providing insights for policymakers, scholars, and gender advocates.

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